LTL vs full truckload: which should you choose?
Clear guidance from Gateway Distribution, less than truckload (LTL) experts in Maine, ME.
You have freight to ship from Maine but you're not sure whether to book a full truck or share space with other shipments. You want the most cost-effective option but don't know which one makes sense for your specific cargo size and timeline.
The choice comes down to your shipment size and how fast you need it delivered. LTL works when your freight takes up less than half a truck trailer. Full truckload makes sense when you're filling most or all of a 53-foot trailer.
LTL costs significantly less for smaller shipments because you only pay for the space you use. Expect to pay 30-50% less than full truckload rates for shipments under 10,000 pounds or fewer than 12 pallets. Full truckload becomes cheaper per pound once you hit 15+ pallets or need the entire trailer space.
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds when you can wait 2-5 business days for delivery. Choose full truckload for 15+ pallets, time-sensitive freight, or when you need direct delivery without stops. Gateway Distribution can quote both options and help you pick the right fit for your Maine shipment.
Your freight gets delivered at the right price point for your needs. LTL shipments arrive on schedule with other businesses' cargo, while full truckload gives you dedicated space and faster transit times.
Other things people in Maine ask
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
when to book freight shipping
Book LTL 1-2 days ahead for standard service. Full truckload needs 2-5 days notice depending on season. Peak seasons (harvest, back-to-school, holidays) require more lead time. Expedited services can often pick up same day.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Maine and the area around it.